HYDROLOGIC CYCLE

The hydrologic cycle is the continuous movement of water through the environment. As water progresses through the cycle, it undergoes changes and is subjected to different factors in the environment that affect its qualities and characteristics. Physical processes making up the hydrologic cycle include:

• Evaporation - the process of water changing phases from a liquid state to a gaseous state (or water vapor).
• Transpiration - the process of plants taking up water through their root system and allowing it to enter the atmosphere through the surface of their leaves.
• Condensation - the process of water changing phases from a gaseous state to a liquid state (opposite of evaporation).
• Precipitation - the process of water falling to earth (liquid or solid forms).
• Infiltration - the process of water moving into and through the soil. Infiltration occurs until the soil can hold no more water, at which time the soil is saturated.
• Surface Runoff - the process of precipitation moving across saturated or impervious soils.
• Percolation - the downward movement of water through the soil.